Karen Lorraine Nichols Harris

DURHAM—Karen Lorraine (Nichols) Harris, 49, of Cedar Point Road, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 21, 2010 around 6:30 p.m. Karen succumbed to the complications of a brain aneurysm at Mass General Hospital in Boston, Mass.

She was born on May 7, 1960 in Dover N.H., the daughter of Bruce Nichols and Carol (True, Nichols) Tabor.

Karen was a feisty individual with a truly unique personality. Anyone who ever met her would never forget her. She was a caring and giving person, always there ready to help others. At all times she would put others needs and troubles ahead of hers. Her personal troubles were always kept secret so others wouldn't worry, few knew of her kidney challenges. Everyday was special to Karen simply because she awoke from a good night's sleep.

Karen was a "fixture" at the Hilltop Equestrian Center. While work at the farm was demanding, the challenge of working with animals was a blessing. The center would host horse events and it was her character that carried over the public address system which people would come to recognize and love.

In her youth Karen was an accomplished and competitive horse rider. She had aspirations of showing her horse this coming summer, and was preparing for the last several months.

Karen touched so many lives and had many different circles of friends. Where ever she went there was someone who knew her. She had one truly best friend, her husband. If Karen could speak now she would wish all to cherish life as she did.

Karen is survived by her husband Craig Harris; her son, Thayer Harris; her brother, Mark Nichols, and many family members and friends.

Flowers are welcome, memorial donations can be made in Karen's name to the PKD Foundation at the following web address: www.pkdcure.org and information about the PKD HALT study which Karen participated in can be found at the following address: www.pkd.wustl.edu/pkd-tn.